The burden of history: from Empire to nation-states -- The political heritage of Islam: continuity and change -- The oppressive state and civil society -- The Islamic Republic of Iran -- The Republic of Turkey -- The Republic of Turkey -- The Republic Iraq -- Syria and Lebanon -- The Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan -- The State of Israel -- The gulf cooperation Council Countries -- The Republic of Yemen -- The Arab Republic of Egypt -- Appendix A. Social groups, languages, and religions -- Appendix B. Population and health in the Middle East -- Appendix C. Size, income, and diversity of the Middle Eastern nations.